{"id":126332,"date":"2023-11-21T10:05:13","date_gmt":"2023-11-21T10:05:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/?post_type=trip&#038;p=126332"},"modified":"2026-04-27T16:27:51","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T15:27:51","slug":"azores-the-emerald-isles","status":"publish","type":"trip","link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/","title":{"rendered":"Azores: the Emerald Isles"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Welcome to Europe\u2019s most exotic archipelago. 800 miles off the coast of Portugal, the Azores is a volcanic playground. More akin to Hawaii than Europe; we\u2019ve created this itinerary for travelers seeking that \u2018far-flung\u2019 feeling with plenty of outdoor adventure. There\u2019ll be contemporary hotels, a visit to Europe&#8217;s only tea plantation and some of the continent&#8217;s most impressive wildlife shows. Nothing is off-limits in the Azores.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":142502,"menu_order":262,"template":"","class_list":["post-126332","trip","type-trip","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","location-azores-us","location-europe","location-portugal","month-april-us","month-august-us","month-july-us","month-june-us","month-may-us","month-october-us","month-september-us"],"thumbnail_video":[{"file":false,"codec":"mp4","video_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/PT2_Thumbnail_1x1.mp4"}],"checkout_hero_banner":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2-1152x648.jpeg","acf":[],"template_id":"PT2","duration":8,"trip_limit":8,"img_header":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2-Thumb-1080x620.jpg","continent":"Europe","country":"Portugal","countries":["Azores","Portugal"],"prices_between":{"gbp":{"min":"\u00a33390","max":"\u00a34145"},"eur":{"min":"\u20ac3965","max":"\u20ac4845"},"usd":{"min":"$4405","max":"$5380"},"cad":{"min":"$5790","max":"$7070"},"aud":{"min":"$6480","max":"$7915"},"nzd":{"min":"$7485","max":"$9145"},"hkd":{"min":"$32935","max":"$40225"},"aed":{"min":"DH15405","max":"DH18815"}},"about":"<p><strong>800 miles off the coast of Portugal, these remote subtropical isles have remained largely under the radar, making them the perfect setting for an immersive Flash Pack adventure.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hailed as the \u2018Hawaii of Europe\u2019 for their lush volcanic landscapes and temperate climate, the Azores are like nine tiny emeralds jutting out of the mid-Atlantic. Together with your group, you\u2019ll spend eight days kayaking across sparkling crater lakes and soaking in steamy hot springs. You\u2019ll visit one of the only tea plantations in Europe and sample Cozido das Caldeiras stew slow-cooked the traditional way inside a volcano. There\u2019ll be whale watching and brunch with goats (yes, you read that right), an authentic cooking demonstration and guided meditation in the lush island forest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>In just eight days, you&#8217;ll discover a little slice of Portugal that&#8217;s a realm unto its own: a unique volcanic playground for a different kind of adventure.<\/p>\n","highlights":[],"lang":"us","trip_type":[],"hidden":false,"seasons":["summer"],"scenery":["city"],"activities":["boat_trip","cooking_class","cycling","hiking","local_culture","tasting","water_sports"],"activity_level":["moderate"],"key_locations":"Lisbon, Bel\u00e9m, Sintra, Ericeira, Coimbra, Douro Valley, G\u00eares National Park, Porto","itinerary":[{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Arrive in Ponta Delgada (PDL)","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Azorean welcome meal","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Touch down on S\u00e3o Miguel, the largest of these exotic isles, where<strong> a Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to transport you to your boutique hotel<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Get to know your fellow Flashpackers over an <strong>authentic\u00a0meal prepared in a traditional, Azorean way and raise a glass<\/strong> to your upcoming adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Azorean welcome meal","text":"<ul>\n<li>Touch down on S\u00e3o Miguel, the largest of these exotic isles, where<strong> a Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to transport you to your boutique hotel<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Get to know your fellow Flashpackers over an <strong>authentic\u00a0meal prepared in a traditional, Azorean way and raise a glass<\/strong> to your upcoming adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Arrive in Ponta Delgada (PDL)","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay12.jpg"],"day":1},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Vista do Rei hike, kayaking & pineapple greenhouse","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike Vista do Rei &#8211; a ridge-top route offering panoramic views<\/strong> over the iconic twin lakes of Sete Cidades.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kayak on the serene waters of Sete Cidades<\/strong> before lunch at the lakeside village<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visit a unique pineapple greenhouse.<\/strong> Introduced from Brazil in the 19th century, the tropical fruits are perfect for creating the island\u2019s Ezequiel liqueur<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"14338","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Vista do Rei hike, kayaking & pineapple greenhouse","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Hike Vista do Rei &#8211; a ridge-top route offering panoramic views<\/strong> over the iconic twin lakes of Sete Cidades.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kayak on the serene waters of Sete Cidades<\/strong> before lunch at the lakeside village<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visit a unique pineapple greenhouse.<\/strong> Introduced from Brazil in the 19th century, the tropical fruits are perfect for creating the island\u2019s Ezequiel liqueur<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay31.3.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PT2_Itinerary_Pineapples.jpg"],"day":2},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Cooking demonstration & city walking tour","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Wake to sunshine and a sea breeze before<strong> taking part in a local-led island cooking demonstration<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Watch as your passionate host<strong> cooks up a feast of Azorean dishes, <\/strong>which you&#8217;ll wash down with volcanic wine<\/li>\n<li><strong>Return to Ponta Delgada for a walking tour of the city with some tasty foodie stops.<\/strong> Stroll through the mosaic cobbled streets sampling local cheese and Bolo levedo, a traditional Azorean sweet bread<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"14339","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Paddle in a kayak inside the serene crater lagoon of Sete Cidades","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Cooking demonstration & city walking tour","text":"<ul>\n<li>Wake to sunshine and a sea breeze before<strong> taking part in a local-led island cooking demonstration<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Watch as your passionate host<strong> cooks up a feast of Azorean dishes, <\/strong>which you&#8217;ll wash down with volcanic wine<\/li>\n<li><strong>Return to Ponta Delgada for a walking tour of the city with some tasty foodie stops.<\/strong> Stroll through the mosaic cobbled streets sampling local cheese and Bolo levedo, a traditional Azorean sweet bread<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay22.1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay20.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay22.jpg"],"day":3},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Rota da \u00c1gua hike & whale watching","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Take in panoramic views over volcanic Lagoa do Fogo<\/strong>, one of the Azores\u2019 most stunning crater lakes<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hike the Rota da \u00c1gua trail \u2013 a forest path through ancient aqueducts<\/strong>, hand-carved tunnels and the dramatic \u201cHell\u2019s Window\u201d waterfall<\/li>\n<li>Up next? <strong>A whale-watching excursion. The Azores are visited by 24 species of cetaceans.<\/strong> Look out for sperm whales, pilot whales and pods of playful dolphins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"14340","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Go whale-watching, looking out for up to 24 different species of cetaceans","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Rota da \u00c1gua hike & whale watching","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Take in panoramic views over volcanic Lagoa do Fogo<\/strong>, one of the Azores\u2019 most stunning crater lakes<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hike the Rota da \u00c1gua trail \u2013 a forest path through ancient aqueducts<\/strong>, hand-carved tunnels and the dramatic \u201cHell\u2019s Window\u201d waterfall<\/li>\n<li>Up next? <strong>A whale-watching excursion. The Azores are visited by 24 species of cetaceans.<\/strong> Look out for sperm whales, pilot whales and pods of playful dolphins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay40.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PT2_Itierinary_Dolphins.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2.jpg"],"day":4},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Tea plantation visit, volcano lunch & hot springs","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Stop by Europe\u2019s only tea plantation<\/strong>, high up in the hills to sip on organic green and black teas and learn about the flavors so unique to the Azores<\/li>\n<li><strong>Head to Furnas for lunch, located in the valley of a volcano.<\/strong> The earth here is so hot, locals slow-cook a stew called Cozido das Caldeiras a metre underground<\/li>\n<li>Spend this afternoon at the nearby 18th-century Terra Nostra estate, <strong>before relaxing with a steamy soak in the mineral-rich hot spring<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"14341","trip_highlight":true,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Tea plantation visit, volcano lunch & hot springs","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Stop by Europe\u2019s only tea plantation<\/strong>, high up in the hills to sip on organic green and black teas and learn about the flavors so unique to the Azores<\/li>\n<li><strong>Head to Furnas for lunch, located in the valley of a volcano.<\/strong> The earth here is so hot, locals slow-cook a stew called Cozido das Caldeiras a metre underground<\/li>\n<li>Spend this afternoon at the nearby 18th-century Terra Nostra estate, <strong>before relaxing with a steamy soak in the mineral-rich hot spring<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY4.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay50.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay51.jpg"],"day":5},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Forest meditation & Moinho do F\u00e9lix hike","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Meditate and deeply connect to the beauty of Ribeira dos Caldeir\u00f5es natural park<\/strong>, whilst listening to the sounds of the cascading waterfall<\/li>\n<li><strong>Walk the scenic Moinho do F\u00e9lix trail,<\/strong> passing hidden waterfalls, coastal cliffs and an old stone watermill<\/li>\n<li>After a busy day out in the wilderness, <strong>enjoy some free time tonight<\/strong> to unwind and enjoy your surroundings at your pace<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"16213","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Forest meditation & Moinho do F\u00e9lix hike","text":"<ul>\n<li><strong>Meditate and deeply connect to the beauty of Ribeira dos Caldeir\u00f5es natural park<\/strong>, whilst listening to the sounds of the cascading waterfall<\/li>\n<li><strong>Walk the scenic Moinho do F\u00e9lix trail,<\/strong> passing hidden waterfalls, coastal cliffs and an old stone watermill<\/li>\n<li>After a busy day out in the wilderness, <strong>enjoy some free time tonight<\/strong> to unwind and enjoy your surroundings at your pace<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay60.1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay61.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay10.jpg"],"day":6},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Goat farm, brunch & farewell dinner","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Start your day by <strong>visiting a goat farm in the island\u2019s hinterland. Try your hand at milking, or simply cuddle up with the baby goats<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Tuck into a typical local brunch:<\/strong> think crusty bread, fresh goat\u2019s cheese and delicious fruit spreads<\/li>\n<li>Finally, travel along the south coast, <strong>stopping at Franca do Campo to taste the famous Vila Franca pastry<\/strong> before your final farewell dinner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"14342","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"Stop by one of Europe\u2019s top two tea plantations for a tasting","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Goat farm, brunch & farewell dinner","text":"<ul>\n<li>Start your day by <strong>visiting a goat farm in the island\u2019s hinterland. Try your hand at milking, or simply cuddle up with the baby goats<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Tuck into a typical local brunch:<\/strong> think crusty bread, fresh goat\u2019s cheese and delicious fruit spreads<\/li>\n<li>Finally, travel along the south coast, <strong>stopping at Franca do Campo to taste the famous Vila Franca pastry<\/strong> before your final farewell dinner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay22.1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PT2_Itinerary_Day75.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/GR2_ItineraryDay62.jpg"],"day":7},{"local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-snapshot":"Depart from S\u00e3o Miguel (PDL) ","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-header":"Depart from S\u00e3o Miguel","local-trip-detailed-itinerary-day-text":"<ul>\n<li>Your Azorean adventure has come to an end. It\u2019s time to <strong>make your own way to the airport for your onward flight<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Back home, <strong>reflect on your time in a part of Europe so many have yet to experience<\/strong>. A slice of perfect tranquility; you\u2019ll carry a sense of peace with you for weeks to come. And when that starts to fade, it\u2019s time for another adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","campaign_id":"","trip_highlight":false,"trip_highlight_strapline":"","quote":{"text":"","author":"","authorSocialUrl":"","date":""},"header":"Depart from S\u00e3o Miguel","text":"<ul>\n<li>Your Azorean adventure has come to an end. It\u2019s time to <strong>make your own way to the airport for your onward flight<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Back home, <strong>reflect on your time in a part of Europe so many have yet to experience<\/strong>. A slice of perfect tranquility; you\u2019ll carry a sense of peace with you for weeks to come. And when that starts to fade, it\u2019s time for another adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","snapshot":"Depart from S\u00e3o Miguel (PDL) ","images":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay8.jpg"],"day":8}],"alternative_itinerary":null,"theme":"Leaf","gallery_uris":["https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay40.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY3.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY1.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY4.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY5.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2.jpg","https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY6.jpg"],"trip_highlights":[{"title":"Vista do Rei hike, kayaking & pineapple greenhouse","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2-1080x620.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2-576x320.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay32.2.jpg","day":2},{"title":"Go whale-watching, looking out for up to 24 different species of cetaceans","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_HIGHLIGHT_WHALE-536x536.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_HIGHLIGHT_WHALE-242x242.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/PT2_ItineraryDay40.jpg","day":4},{"title":"Tea plantation visit, volcano lunch & hot springs","picture":{"desktop":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY4-1080x620.jpg","mobile":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY4-576x320.jpg"},"image":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/PT2_GALLERY4.jpg","day":5}],"included_highlights":[{"day":"4","description":"Go whale & dolphin watching, looking out for up to 24 different species","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_itierinary_dolphins\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"5","description":"Stop by one of Europe\u2019s top two tea plantations for a tasting","tag":"foodie-focus","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_itineraryday72-2\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"2","description":"Kayak inside the serene crater lagoon of Sete Cidades","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_highlightkayak\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"5","description":"Enjoy lunch in the valley of a volcano, feasting on stew cooked a metre underground","tag":"foodie-focus","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_itineraryday51\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"3","description":"Watch a cooking demonstration of Azorean dishes which you'll wash down with volcanic wine","tag":"foodie-focus","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_itineraryday20-2\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false},{"day":"6","description":"Meditate to the sounds of the cascading waterfall in Ribeira dos Caldeir\u00f5es natural park","tag":"iconic-moment","image":{"link":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/adventure-trips\/azores-the-emerald-isles\/attachment\/pt2_itineraryday60-1\/"},"link_to_accommodation":false}],"included":["All activities shown in itinerary including Sete Cidades kayaking, whale watching & tea plantation visit","Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels","Shared twin room (Single rooms available)","7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners including a volcanic-cooked meal in Furnas","Private minibus","Arrival airport transfer","Experienced, local Pack Leader throughout","Max. 16 people per trip","Everyone at a similar life stage","90% travel solo, 80% stay in touch"],"videos":[{"source":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PT2-Trip-Header.mp4","codec":"mp4"}],"faqs":[{"question":"Are flights included?","answer":"Flights to and from your destination aren\u2019t included in the trip price \u2014 you\u2019ll need to book these independently. You\u2019ll find recommended arrival and departure airports, along with suggested timings, in the FAQs below.\n"},{"question":"Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code","answer":"Fly into and out of Aeroporto Jo\u00e3o Paulo II (PDL) in Ponta Delgada on the island of S\u00e3o Miguel.\u00a0\n"},{"question":"What time should my flight arrive (time for the welcome meeting)?","answer":"Ideally before 2pm. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 6pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 20 minutes away from the airport.\n"},{"question":"What time should my flight depart on the last day?","answer":"There are no activities planned for the last day, so you can leave any time you wish. Your Pack Leader can help you book your transfers the night before if needed.\n"},{"question":"Are airport transfers included?","answer":"If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you\u2019ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.\nHowever, if you\u2019ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you\u2019ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.\u00a0\nPlease also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you\u2019ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure\u2019s departure date. You\u2019ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won\u2019t be chasing you. That\u2019s why it\u2019s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you\u2019ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.\nDeparture transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.\n"},{"question":"Are tips included? ","answer":"Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:\n\nPack Leader: 5-10 USD per day\nDrivers: 2-3 USD per day\nLocal tips: tipping isn\u2019t customary in the Azores, however if you wish to leave tips for restaurants, local guides, etc, your Pack Leader will be able to advise on suitable amounts.\n\nAll tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.\n"},{"question":"Do I need a visa? ","answer":"Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.\nYou can also find essential travel advice \u2013 including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information \u2013 on the government website of your home country:\n\nUK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.\nUS residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.\nAustralian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.\nResidents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.\n\nPlease be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it\u2019s important to stay updated with the latest information.\n"},{"question":"What vaccinations and medication will I need? ","answer":"While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.\n1. Consult with a healthcare professional\nWe recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.\n2. Up-to-date medical advice\n\nUK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.\nUS residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.\nAustralian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.\n\n3. Government travel advice\n\nUK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.\nUS residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.\nAustralian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.\n\n4. Medication tips\nIf you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays.\u00a0Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.\nWe hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.\n"},{"question":"How much should I budget per day for extras?","answer":"We recommend budgeting around 35 GBP per day.\n\u00a0\n"},{"question":"What fitness levels do I need for this trip?","answer":"Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed so no real level of fitness is needed. The most strenuous activity is the kayaking on Day 3.\u00a0\nWe recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. \n"},{"question":"What are the times in hours, and distances in KM for each of the hikes?\u00a0","answer":"The lengths of each hike varies. Here\u2019s a summary for each:\n\nVista do Rei to Sete Cidades \u2013 Duration: 10:15 till 12:00 \u2013 Approx. 2 hours \u2013 Distance: 7.6 km\nRota da \u00c1gua \u2013 Janela do Inferno \u2013 Duration: 09:00 till 11:30 \u2013 Approx. 2.5 hours \u2013 Distance: 7.3 km\nMoinhos do F\u00e9lix \u2013 Duration: 14:00 till 16:30 \u2013 Approx. 2.5 hours \u2013 Distance: 5.5 km\n\n"},{"question":"Are waterproof hiking boots mandatory?","answer":"Waterproof hiking boots are recommended but not mandatory. Safe and comfortable footwear is advised as the weather conditions can change rapidly. For this reason, we advise bringing waterproof clothing, water, and appropriate footwear. If the guide determines that the weather conditions are not suitable for a safe hike, we won\u2019t proceed with the trail.\n"},{"question":"Are whale sightings guaranteed? ","answer":"While we can\u2019t guarantee specific whale sightings due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, our experienced guides will make every effort to provide an enriching experience. In the event of unfavourable weather on Day 4, the whale-watching activity may be rescheduled to Day 7 or an alternative day when conditions are more favourable.\n"},{"question":"What will the hotel rooms be like?","answer":"Room types might vary at the property in Ponta Delgada but we can guarantee all rooms are comfortable, characterful and in line with Flash Pack\u2019s standard.\n"},{"question":"Will the itinerary change?","answer":"Due to their remote location in the middle of the Atlantic, weather in the Azores can be unpredictable \u2013 notoriously experiencing \u2018four seasons in one day\u2019. After periods of extended dry weather, waterfalls on the islands will be less impressive and might even dry up completely.\nPlease be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control \u2013 but we\u2019ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.\n"}],"hotels":[{"name":"Casa Hintze Ribeiro","short_description":"","description":"A boutique hotel in Ponta Delgada\u2019s historic centre, with chic interiors by Portuguese designer Nini Andrade Silva. Everything is in blue and beige, reflecting the colours of the Azores, from the striking geometric tiles and beautiful stone archways to the airy apartment-style rooms. This hotel will be used for our 20 May, 3 Aug, 24 Aug and 31 Aug 2024 trips.\u00a0\n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PS2_Hotel_Hotel-Casa-Hintze-Ribeiro.jpg","is_alternative":false},{"name":"Hotel Vila Gal\u00e9 Collection","short_description":"","description":"Occupying the site of a former hospital, this sophisticated Ponta Delgada hotel is full of historic character with a grand sweeping staircase, high coved ceilings and ornate arched windows overlooking the monochrome courtyard pool. Check out the \u00e0 la carte restaurant for its Azorean gastro menu. This hotel will be used for our 6 Apr, 28 Jun, 28 Sep, 5 Oct and 12 Oct 2024 trips.\n\n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PS2_Hotel_VILA-GALE-COLLECTION-S.-MIGUEL.jpg","is_alternative":false},{"name":"Hotel Lince Azores","short_description":"","description":"\n\n\n\n\nSpace and light are the common theme of this contemporary 4-star hotel, a 10-minute walk from Ponta Delgada\u2019s seafront promenade. The curve of white metal and glass stands out above the residential neighbourhood, with clean, bright interiors and an attractive spa and pool area. This hotel will be used for our 10 Jun, 15 Jul, 2 Sep and 21 Sep 2024 trips.\n\n\n\n\n\n","image_url":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/PT2_HotelLince.jpg","is_alternative":false}],"wellness_rooms":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/trip\/126332","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/trip"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/trip"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/142502"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.flashpack.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=126332"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}